Sometimes patience pays off in the realm of code compliance, but it must be combined with persistent enforcement.

A fire-damaged apartment building near Skyline High School had long been a bane for both neighbors and city officials. Teenagers would skip school and hang out in the abandoned structure. Code officers and city attorneys tried to shepherd multiple owners through the process of rehabbing the apartments, only to have them abandon efforts midstream.

Progress has been less than swift under the current owner. Deadlines have been missed. Fines have been levied. But city officials continued to push this project forward. Now, years after the fire, a long-awaited certificate of occupancy has been obtained.

These aren’t luxury condos, but the apartments have gotten a significant upgrade. And that’s a victory worth noting.

Each month, this newspaper highlights opportunities for improvement in southern Dallas. Today, in our 33rd installment, we offer updates on these 10 drops in the bucket.

Problem No. 1: √

The apartments on Rothington Road sat empty for years, as work to repair fire damage stalled out.

The update: Everything from the floors to the front doors has been replaced, and curtains are even hanging in a couple windows.

The next step: The rest of the complex could still use some work, but this building is ready for residents. So, we’re checking this item off our list.

Problem No. 2: ↔

A once-tidy brick cottage on Jamaica Street quickly deteriorated when a tree crashed through the roof and the owners disappeared.

The update: The tree is finally gone, but the roof damage remains. And the neglected yard is an overgrown mess.

The next step: The city is pursuing a lawsuit to collect delinquent taxes on the property.

Problem No. 3: ↑

Blight attracts more blight on Swanson Street near Spring Avenue, where several boarded-up houses are clustered together.

The update: The worst eyesore on the block — a fire-ravaged home — has been demolished.

The next step: City officials will continue to work with property owners to address violations and ensure that the remaining structures are secured.

Problem No. 4: ↑

St. Clair Drive has been a haven for vagrants, as abandoned houses sat with doors and windows open, inviting anyone to take up residence.

The update: A court has issued a demolition order for one structure, and others have been boarded up. But some of the plywood already has been torn down.

The next step: One house will await the bulldozers while the city tries to stay one step ahead of squatters.